Link PDF: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1WrvxEBD1gw-K04VShqL7GhBf_Z4FwGF2?usp=sharing



“A room is, or can be, a home” (Codex, 6)
We were asked to bring an object which we connect to the feeling of being at home. I chose a pillow not only for its decorative character but also because it symbolizes support and coziness. Using this as a starting point I had in mind to create a room where people feel at home or at least comfortable enough to sit down. Sitting down stops us from moving. We intend to stay for at least a short moment otherwise we would not bother sitting down and would stay standing with the intention to continue our journey.
I wanted to give the visitors a place where they can escape the hectic of the city life and be calm and enjoy the beautiful site we call “Mangrove” with its nature. A place where harmony, well-being and relaxation fills back up our energy, so we can continue our day with a refreshed feeling. Furthermore, it should be a place that is suitable to enjoy it alone but has also the possibility to use it as a hangout place for groups.
A second demand was to focus on one of the four elements of Semper. I had a picture in my mind of a table, sunken in the floor which I couldn’t find but it strongly resembled an Horigotatsu Table, so I based my Project on the element “Floor”. The floor is often considered as the lower limit of a space.
By adding an important thickness to the floor, I was able to create new space beneath the original Room adding new characteristics.
By lowering himself into the floor a new view of the room and its exteriors is created, changing the perception of it.
Not only the view is important to the perception but also the way we feel/live the place. With this in mind I tried to not create four holes but rather a parkour in order to get a more fluid experience.
Getting back to my original intend of creating a place pleasant to stay a while, sitting down and enjoying the site I expanded some of the layers.

By linking to the other project, I gained accessibility and an “balcony” facing the Rhone.

The project as it is right now, provides different places to enjoy the site but also the possibility to actively explore the site.
Link: Horigotatsu_Simona Ganea,
https://www.homedit.com/japanese-dining-tables/